The final grading now focuses on Augustus Gilchrist (took me long enough to get this one posted). Gilchrist, the leading scorer and go-to option for the Bulls, had a solid year, but failed to reach the expectations that so many had placed on him before the season began. Many saw Gilchrist taking over the team and scoring at the level that DoJo did, but this never happened. An injury and a short exit from the program were negative parts of his season, but down the stretch in conference play, Gilchrist stepped up his game and became the leader for the team. Time to see his final grade. [keep reading]
Gilchrist, the 6'10" 245-pound forward/center, was the leading scorer for the Bulls all season long, even though he missed some time and came off the bench in some games for Coach Heath. Gilchrist averaged 13.2 points per game (shooting 44.6% from the field and 25.9% from 3-point range), 6.1 rebounds, .9 assists per game, and 2.5 turnovers per game. He hit 32 points against DePaul and consistently averaged in double digits for the Bulls all year.
On offense, Gilchrist can dominate the paint. He prefers to post up in the paint and back down a defender. He has a solid move to the basket and great size to allow him to get to the hoop easily. With his size, he can dominate an opposing forward and can slide easily to the basket. He has a solid mid-range game which can help spread the court and create issues for defenses. He is not a high percentage shooter from long range (3-pointers) but within the paint area, with his jump shot and move through the paint, Gilchrist is simply solid.
On defense, Gilchrist is a solid post defender. He has the height and length to lockdown an opposing player. He has long arms and can alter shots easily. He has decent lateral movement, but ball handlers that have higher speed and can drive past him if he is not in position. Gilchrist plays the paint well and can outrebound opponents, but doesn't have the weight to body up against opposing centers.
Gilchrist was the best player for the Bulls all season long. He was the leading scorer and made the biggest impact on the court. It is not certain if he will leave to the NBA, but USF could use him back next season because he makes things happen on offense.
Final grade: A-
0 Comments:
Post a Comment